What does "gravida" refer to in obstetrics?

In obstetrics, "gravida" specifically refers to the total number of pregnancies a woman has had, regardless of the outcome. This includes current pregnancies as well as those that resulted in live births or pregnancies that ended in miscarriage or abortion. Understanding this term is essential for accurately assessing a woman's obstetrical history, which is important for anticipating any potential complications and for tailoring appropriate care during prenatal and postnatal visits.

By distinguishing "gravida" from other terms, such as "parity" (which refers to the number of pregnancies that have resulted in live births), it becomes easier to communicate a woman’s pregnancy history in a clinical setting. This differentiation is key in evaluating maternal health and planning for subsequent pregnancies or interventions.